TheCable

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended its campaign in Delta state following a boat accident involving some of its supporters.

The incident occurred on Tuesday while the APC supporters were returning from the party’s rally in Okerenkoko community, Warri south-west LGA of the state.

In a statement by Ima Niboro, its director of communications and media strategy, the Delta APC campaign council said the party is working with relevant authorities and communities to search for survivors.

“Information at our disposal indicates that a commercial boat travelling in the opposite direction rammed into the boat carrying our supporters,” Niboro said.

“Two persons lost their lives, three are missing, and seven others are in hospital receiving treatment from injuries sustained in the accident.

“We are shocked by this tragedy, and our hearts are heavy. Our prayers and thoughts are with the victims and their families. This is one tragedy too many, and our party is officially in mourning.

“We are currently working with the relevant authorities and communities to search for the missing.

“We are also in the process of reaching out to the families and loved ones of those that lost their lives, while ensuring that the injured receive the best care possible.”

Niboro added that the campaign council would advise on next steps in the coming days.

Meanwhile, the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has commiserated with the APC over the incident.

The PDP, in a condolence message by Ifeanyi Osuoza, its campaign council publicity secretary, said the party is “shocked and deeply saddened” by the incident.

“We commiserate with the Deputy Senate President and Delta APC governorship candidate, Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege, the entire APC family in the state,” the statement reads.

“And most especially the families of those whose lives were lost and those receiving treatment from injuries, sustained during the mishap, which occurred as they returned from the APC rally in Okerenkoko on Tuesday, Dec. 20.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, even as we pray that the search for the missing persons by the authorities, will yield positive results and they would soon be reunited with their friends, families and loved ones.

“Every Delta life matters to us and the loss or misadventure of any Delta citizen, irrespective of political, cultural, and other diverse considerations, is our collective loss.”